Unfortunately, most of the problems with time management are self-made. We know there is only a certain amount of time in the day, yet some of us don’t really get to grips with our time management. As a long time user of business apps, I understand time management is a vital part of everyone’s day. Here are a few problems I see time and time again –

NOT SETTING PRIORITIES

This is probably the most common mistake. Writing a to-do list can be a fatal mistake. It looks and feels like you are getting organized, but unless you prioritize then you end up missing the important bits because you are doing the easy tasks. Prioritize the tasks and see the best results.

BITING OFF MORE THAN YOU CAN CHEW

It is tempting to say ‘yes’ to every opportunity, then try to work out how to do it later. But every new task is a drain on your time. Pick the tasks that you now are within your capability and you can make money on. Everything else can cause a major headache.

BUSY BEING BUSY

It feels good, doesn’t it, to be busy? We feel as though we are making progress and things are moving along. There is a buzz of adrenaline and we comfort ourselves at the end of the day with important tasks not achieved because we were busy.’ Don’t be a busy fool – get the tasks carried out that are vital to your day.

CUTTING OUT THE BREAKS

Surely, if you want to manage your time, then cutting breaks is a great way to find those vital extra minutes? Well, it doesn’t work that way. You are far less productive when fatigued and don’t deliver the same level of performance. Giving the brain and body a rest produces better results.

MANAGING DISTRACTIONS

We would all like to think that there is no such thing as a distraction, that we can manage these out of our day. But that isn’t a realistic solution. There will always be that chat, time pent on social media or part of the day that is covered by personal tasks. Acknowledging distractions is the first step. They will happen, just manage them effectively and set aside a little time each day for them.

One great way to start managing your staff’s time is by using the free tool – SINC Time Clock. It is easy to set up and will save everyone involved hours of work each week recording timesheets.